FFL: Fight the Silence — A Mental Health Foundation Showcase

Forge Fight League: Fight the Silence is a free foundation showcase uniting combat sports, live music, and community healing to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. Presented by the Daequan Winbush Foundation, this event brings together athletes, artists, and local vendors for a powerful night rooted in strength, creativity, and unity.

Admission: Free to the public
Date: February 21, 2026
Location: Bishop Leo E. O’Neil Youth Center — 30 South Elm Street, Manchester, NH 03103
Streaming: Free live on Forge+

🥊 Fight Card (so far)

Mike Jones Jr. vs Malachi “The Messenger” Pease — Boxing Exhibition
Ian “Metal Boots” Myers vs Jay “Little Dawg” Carroll — Kickboxing Exhibition
Additional amateur boxing bouts (TBA)

🎤 Live Performances

Clean hip-hop performances between bouts (no explicit lyrics)
Poetry and spoken-word segments
Closing unity moment with all fighters and artists on stage

🧠 About the Foundation

The Daequan Winbush Foundation is dedicated to mental-health awareness and suicide prevention, with a focus on young adults and athletes. Fight the Silence transforms the ring and stage into platforms for expression, resilience, and connection — reminding the community that no one fights alone.

⚙️ Important Details

USA Boxing registration pending
Kickboxing oversight in progress with the NH Boxing & Wrestling Commission
Open fighter slots available (3 amateur boxing exhibitions)
Seeking 4 clean music artists
Vendors welcome — limited spaces available

💬 How to Get Involved

Apply through the FFL Base44 App.
Vendor and artist RSVPs can also be submitted directly through Eventbrite under Vendor/Artist Interest.
Optional donations support the Daequan Winbush Foundation’s community programs.